'Diaries' exec promises character return

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The Vampire Diaries' executive producer Kevin Williamson has promised that John will return to the show.

John, played by David Anders, is Elena's biological father but was told by Stefan to leave town in the second season premiere.

"Of course he's coming back," Williamson told the New York Post. "I won't say when, but he comes back as a result of Isobel - that triggers Uncle John's return as well. We don't know what he's up to - what his agenda is or why he's back. It certainly can't be because he's decided to be a good father!"

Williamson described John as "a good bad guy" and continued: "He brings up so much potential in terms of how ugly and mean and bad this lifestyle can make you. He works on all the courses - he's Elena's real father, so you have that emotional tie. He's complete fodder for Katherine, who chopped his fingers off. Damon and Stefan hate him because Elena does. Also, if you really think about it, he also slept with Jenna years ago and now Jenna's dating Alaric, who was married to Isobel - the mother of John's child.

"He's there, he's entrenched in everyone's life. I'm all about potential and if you are a character with potential, you'll be brought back. And I think there is a mass potential there for some good drama and some great conflict. He's a fun guy."

The Vampire Diaries returns for a new episode on January 27 on The CW.